SAVING WINSLOW

Kirby Heyborne narrates the short, poignant chapters of this audiobook, imbuing them with the inflections and emotions they deserve. Ten-year-old Louie is saddened when his father brings home a "pitiful donkey." Its mother is dying, and it probably won't live, but Louie--in an act of whim, love, and optimism--decides to save it. In the next moment, he names the spindly-legged animal Winslow, and his determination only grows. Heyborne brings particular strength to the dialogue--the father's pessimism starkly contrasts with Louie's cheer. This a story with additional heartrending layers, such as Louie's longing for and worry about his larger-than-life brother, who is in the military. Heyborne honors all the elements in this story, making it a hugely successful family listen. S.W. Winner of AudioFile Earphones Award © AudioFile 2018, Portland, Maine [Published: SEPTEMBER 2018]